The space tourism industry is no longer science fiction—it’s a real and growing market. Companies like SpaceX, Blue Origin, and Virgin Galactic are leading the way, making space travel accessible to high-net-worth individuals. But not all space tourism is the same. There are two main categories: orbital and suborbital tourism.
1. Orbital tourism market size was valued at approximately $250 million in 2023
Orbital tourism is still in its early stages but is already a multi-million-dollar market. Companies like SpaceX and Axiom Space are pioneering missions that take private individuals to space stations or free-flight orbital missions.
The high costs, technical complexity, and safety concerns have kept this market relatively small compared to suborbital tourism.
However, the potential is massive. As technology improves and costs decrease, more customers will be willing to pay for extended stays in space. Investors looking to enter this market should focus on long-term growth and partnerships with established aerospace companies.
2. Suborbital tourism market size was valued at approximately $600 million in 2023
Suborbital tourism is currently the dominant segment in space tourism.
Blue Origin and Virgin Galactic have successfully launched multiple commercial flights, and the relatively lower costs have attracted more customers.
This market has grown quickly because it offers a more affordable and accessible experience compared to orbital flights. It appeals to thrill-seekers and those who want a taste of space without committing to a long mission.
For investors and entrepreneurs, this is a market with strong near-term potential.
3. The orbital space tourism market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 14-18% from 2024 to 2032
Despite its smaller size today, orbital tourism is expected to see steady growth over the next decade. The expansion of commercial space stations and advancements in spacecraft reusability will help drive down costs, attracting more wealthy travelers.
For businesses, this means there is still time to get involved in supporting technologies, training services, and luxury space accommodations. The companies that invest early in orbital tourism could see massive returns as the industry matures.
4. The suborbital space tourism market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 20-25% from 2024 to 2032
Suborbital tourism is expected to grow faster than orbital tourism over the next decade. The reason is simple: affordability and accessibility. As more flights are launched, safety records improve, and prices drop, demand will skyrocket.
For businesses, this is an excellent opportunity to invest in auxiliary services such as space training centers, premium astronaut experiences, and zero-gravity tourism packages. Entrepreneurs should also explore partnerships with suborbital flight operators.
5. Orbital spaceflight costs $50-55 million per seat as of 2023
The biggest challenge for orbital tourism is the high price. A ticket to orbit costs tens of millions of dollars, making it accessible only to ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
However, costs are expected to drop as more companies enter the market. Investors should focus on cost-reducing innovations such as reusable launch systems and alternative space habitats that lower operational expenses.
6. Suborbital spaceflight costs $250,000-$450,000 per seat as of 2023
The current $250,000 to $450,000 price range for suborbital flights represents a pivotal stage in the commercialization of space tourism.
While this price tag positions suborbital travel as an exclusive luxury experience, it also signals an emerging opportunity: the path toward affordability and mass adoption.
For businesses looking to enter the market—whether as direct competitors, service providers, or adjacent industry players—the current pricing model offers strategic insights into where the industry is headed and how to capitalize on its inevitable evolution.
7. Virgin Galactic has over 800 reservations for suborbital flights
Virgin Galactic’s ability to secure over 800 reservations for its suborbital flights is more than just a sign of consumer demand—it’s a strategic advantage that solidifies suborbital tourism as a rapidly expanding market.
While orbital tourism remains an exclusive venture with a high price barrier, Virgin Galactic’s reservations suggest that suborbital travel is becoming an accessible and scalable business.
Why Virgin Galactic’s Reservation Model Is a Game-Changer
Unlike orbital tourism companies, which cater to ultra-high-net-worth individuals, Virgin Galactic has successfully positioned itself as the “entry-level” space tourism provider.
The company has tapped into a new market segment: affluent yet non-billionaire travelers who seek an extraordinary experience without the complexity of orbital missions.
By pricing their tickets around $450,000, they have struck a balance between exclusivity and accessibility—appealing to adventurers, influencers, and early adopters who drive market momentum.
Pre-Sold Demand Strengthens Business Viability
A backlog of over 800 ticket holders means predictable revenue, reduced financial risks, and a built-in customer base. This model allows Virgin Galactic to scale efficiently, improve its technology, and optimize customer experience before expanding further.
The ability to pre-sell flights also attracts investors who see a clear path to long-term profitability.
For businesses looking to enter the space tourism industry, this reservation model provides a blueprint for how demand generation and early revenue commitments can de-risk new ventures.
8. Blue Origin has flown 31 passengers on suborbital missions since 2021
Blue Origin’s successful launch of 31 passengers on suborbital missions since 2021 signals a clear shift: suborbital tourism is no longer a futuristic concept—it’s happening now.
With each flight of New Shepard, Blue Origin strengthens its position as a leader in the suborbital space race, proving that frequent, safe, and accessible space travel is a viable business.
Why Blue Origin’s Passenger Flights Matter for the Industry
Every successful mission builds consumer confidence, making space tourism feel less like a risky experiment and more like a premium travel experience.
Unlike orbital missions, which still require extensive training and preparation, Blue Origin’s suborbital flights offer a streamlined, near-instant space experience—one that appeals to a broader audience, including celebrities, business leaders, and adventure seekers.
For businesses and investors, this shift means the window of opportunity is now wide open. The companies that act quickly to establish partnerships, develop adjacent services, or innovate within the space tourism ecosystem will gain a first-mover advantage.
9. SpaceX’s Inspiration4 mission in 2021 was the first fully commercial orbital flight
SpaceX’s Inspiration4 mission in 2021 was more than just another spaceflight—it was a turning point for the commercialization of orbital tourism. For the first time in history, a fully private crew, with no professional astronauts on board, successfully completed an orbital mission.
This achievement sent a clear message to businesses, investors, and innovators: orbital space tourism is no longer a distant dream but an emerging industry with real commercial potential.
Why Inspiration4 Was a Game-Changer for Orbital Tourism
The mission’s success broke traditional barriers that kept spaceflight exclusive to government astronauts and billionaires.
Unlike previous orbital missions requiring years of training, the Inspiration4 crew underwent just a few months of preparation, proving that spaceflight can be accessible to well-prepared private individuals.
This shift paves the way for future missions where businesses, researchers, and even adventurous travelers can book trips to space without needing NASA-level expertise.
The impact is clear: orbital tourism is moving beyond a concept and into a scalable, repeatable business model. Companies that recognize this shift early can position themselves to benefit from the next phase of space commercialization.
10. SpaceX plans to launch Polaris Dawn, a commercial orbital mission, in 2024
SpaceX’s Polaris Dawn mission, set to launch in 2024, is not just another step in space tourism—it’s a giant leap toward making private spaceflight more advanced, ambitious, and commercially viable.
Unlike previous missions, Polaris Dawn will push the boundaries of what private astronauts can achieve in orbit, setting new benchmarks for safety, experience, and deep-space capabilities.
This mission represents more than just another commercial flight. It is a strategic move to cement SpaceX’s dominance in orbital tourism, while also laying the groundwork for future interplanetary missions.
Businesses and investors looking to enter the space industry should see this as a watershed moment—one that signals a shift from isolated space tourism experiences to a sustainable, scalable commercial space economy.
11. Axiom Space is planning to launch two private missions to the ISS annually starting 2023
Axiom Space’s plan to launch two private missions to the International Space Station (ISS) annually is more than just an expansion of orbital tourism—it’s a strategic move toward a fully commercial space economy.
Unlike suborbital space tourism, which offers only minutes of weightlessness, Axiom’s missions provide multi-day orbital experiences that blend adventure, research, and business opportunities.
This initiative signals a shift: space tourism is no longer just about getting to space—it’s about staying there and making it commercially viable.
Businesses looking to capitalize on this shift must start preparing for a future where private space stations, in-orbit research, and luxury space accommodations become the next big market opportunities.
12. Roscosmos has resumed orbital tourism with Soyuz missions to the ISS
Roscosmos has reestablished itself in the orbital tourism market by resuming Soyuz missions to the International Space Station (ISS). This move marks Russia’s return as a key player in commercial spaceflight, reinforcing its decades-long history of sending private citizens to space.
With a reliable launch system, proven track record, and competitive pricing, Roscosmos is positioning itself to challenge Western space tourism providers and expand access to orbital travel.
For businesses looking to enter the space sector, Roscosmos’ renewed participation presents a strategic opportunity to explore partnerships, technological advancements, and competitive market positioning.
13. The first all-private ISS mission by Axiom Space (AX-1) cost $55 million per passenger
Axiom Space’s AX-1 mission was more than just a milestone in space tourism—it was the first all-private astronaut mission to the International Space Station (ISS), proving that orbital travel is no longer the sole domain of government space agencies.
At $55 million per passenger, the mission set a new benchmark for commercial spaceflight, demonstrating both the high demand and high cost of extended orbital stays.
Beyond the price tag, AX-1 laid the foundation for the transition from public to private space stations, with Axiom positioning itself as a leader in the post-ISS era of commercial orbital habitats.
Businesses, investors, and innovators should view this mission as a preview of where the space economy is headed—and how they can participate before orbital travel becomes mainstream.
14. Virgin Galactic aims to operate 400 suborbital flights per year by 2030
Virgin Galactic’s ambition to operate 400 suborbital flights per year by 2030 is more than just a growth goal—it’s a strategic move to transform suborbital space tourism from an exclusive luxury into a high-frequency commercial service.
By scaling up operations, the company is aiming to turn space tourism into a repeatable, predictable, and widely accessible experience, much like private aviation.
For businesses and investors, this aggressive expansion signals a maturing industry with increasing opportunities for commercialization, partnerships, and supporting infrastructure.
Those who act early will have the advantage as suborbital tourism shifts from a novelty to a mainstream high-end travel option.
15. SpaceX has completed two fully private orbital missions as of 2023
By completing two fully private orbital missions as of 2023, SpaceX has proven that private spaceflight is not just possible, but scalable.
These missions—Inspiration4 and Axiom Space’s AX-1—were industry-defining events that pushed commercial spaceflight beyond government programs.
Unlike suborbital flights, which provide only a few minutes of weightlessness, these multi-day orbital journeys offer an entirely new level of space experience.
For businesses, this is a watershed moment that signals new opportunities in luxury travel, corporate partnerships, and space-based research. As SpaceX continues to refine its orbital tourism offerings, companies that position themselves early will have the advantage as this emerging industry matures.
16. SpaceX’s Starship is expected to reduce orbital tourism costs by over 50%
One of the biggest barriers to orbital tourism is cost. At $50-55 million per seat, only the ultra-wealthy can afford the experience. However, SpaceX’s Starship is expected to significantly cut costs, possibly bringing the price down to $20-25 million per seat within the next decade.
Why does this matter? Lower costs will open the market to a larger customer base, including wealthy adventure travelers who currently find orbital tourism too expensive.
Businesses should monitor SpaceX’s progress and prepare for a more competitive pricing environment. There could be opportunities in mid-tier luxury space travel, specialized astronaut training, and even premium orbital vacation packages.
17. Suborbital flights currently last 11-15 minutes per trip
Suborbital tourism offers a short but intense experience. Passengers get a brief moment of weightlessness and a spectacular view of Earth before returning to the surface.
This creates opportunities for businesses to enhance the experience. Luxury pre-flight training programs, high-end space lounges, and post-flight celebrations could become highly profitable.
The brevity of suborbital flights also means they could be bundled with other extreme adventure activities, such as deep-sea diving or zero-gravity parabolic flights, to create high-end travel packages.
18. Orbital flights last several days to over a week
Unlike suborbital flights, orbital tourism provides a much longer and immersive experience. Travelers spend days orbiting the Earth, performing activities like space photography, scientific experiments, or even live-streaming their experience.
Businesses should explore ways to make orbital tourism more comfortable. Luxury space accommodations, personalized entertainment, and even custom-designed astronaut gear could appeal to high-net-worth clients.
There is also a growing opportunity for content creation—brands and influencers will likely be willing to pay a premium to document their journey from space.
19. Suborbital tourism is expected to reach $2 billion market size by 2030
Suborbital tourism is growing rapidly and is expected to become a multi-billion-dollar industry within this decade. This signals an increasing number of commercial spaceflights, repeat customers, and growing consumer trust.
For businesses, this is an ideal time to enter the market. Companies should consider partnerships with suborbital flight providers, offer space-themed luxury experiences, or develop exclusive travel packages that include space tourism as part of a high-end adventure.
20. Orbital tourism is expected to exceed $3 billion market size by 2035
While suborbital tourism is growing faster, orbital tourism will eventually catch up. As space stations become more commercialized and space travel becomes more routine, the market for multi-day orbital experiences will expand.
This presents a long-term investment opportunity. Entrepreneurs should consider how they can contribute to this evolving market, whether through space hospitality, in-space research experiences, or even private space station development.
21. 400+ suborbital tickets have been sold since 2021 by Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin
With 400+ suborbital tickets sold since 2021 by Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin, suborbital space tourism is no longer just a concept—it’s a validated and growing market with real demand.
These ticket sales represent more than just customer interest; they signal a shifting consumer mindset where space travel is transitioning from science fiction to a premium, sought-after experience.
For businesses, these numbers are not just an indicator of demand—they reveal a major opportunity to invest in the expanding ecosystem of space tourism services, luxury travel, and adjacent industries.
As more people prepare to fly, support industries like training, hospitality, and in-orbit experiences are poised for rapid growth.
22. Jeff Bezos’ Blue Origin New Shepard has conducted six crewed suborbital missions
Blue Origin is consistently launching suborbital missions, reinforcing its credibility and market leadership.
This steady growth means suborbital flights are becoming a more accepted form of extreme tourism. Brands should consider how they can incorporate space tourism into their offerings—whether through luxury travel, corporate team-building experiences, or even educational space programs.
23. Orbital tourism accounts for ~80% of the revenue in the space tourism market in 2023
Despite having fewer customers than suborbital tourism, orbital tourism generates more revenue due to its higher ticket prices.
This suggests a dual investment strategy: companies should focus on suborbital tourism for short-term profits while preparing for orbital tourism’s long-term potential.
Those who build strong brand credibility in suborbital tourism today will be well-positioned to offer premium orbital experiences in the future.
24. Suborbital flights can carry 4-6 passengers per launch
Suborbital spacecraft like Virgin Galactic’s SpaceShipTwo and Blue Origin’s New Shepard can accommodate multiple passengers per trip.
This opens up new business models. Exclusive group bookings, corporate-sponsored missions, and influencer-driven marketing campaigns could help drive demand. Luxury travel agencies should also look into offering customized suborbital experiences for high-net-worth clients.
25. Orbital flights typically carry 3-4 private tourists per mission
Orbital space tourism missions have maintained a small passenger count of 3-4 private tourists per flight, a model that reinforces exclusivity, safety, and high-value experiences.
Unlike suborbital flights, which can accommodate larger groups for brief weightless moments, orbital travel offers a multi-day immersive journey in space, making it a vastly different category of tourism.
This small-group model is a strategic choice, ensuring that private missions remain personalized, highly controlled, and optimized for premium experiences.
For businesses and investors, it represents a unique market opportunity to tap into an ultra-premium travel sector that blends luxury, adventure, and cutting-edge science.
26. The demand for suborbital flights exceeds 5,000+ interested customers globally
There is significant unmet demand for suborbital tourism, as thousands of people have expressed interest in space travel but have not yet flown.
Companies should focus on converting this interest into actual bookings. Effective marketing, transparent safety records, and partnerships with high-end travel agencies can help attract more customers.
27. Blue Origin is investing over $1 billion in new space tourism infrastructure
Blue Origin is making long-term investments in facilities, launch sites, and spacecraft development to scale its tourism operations.
This suggests a growing market for space tourism-related services. Businesses should look into opportunities in space tourism logistics, customer onboarding, and astronaut preparation programs.
28. Axiom Space plans to build the first private space station by 2028
Axiom Space’s plan to build the first private space station by 2028 is more than just a technological milestone—it represents the transition from government-led space operations to a fully commercial space economy.
With the International Space Station (ISS) set for retirement in the next decade, Axiom’s initiative isn’t just a new project; it’s a necessary evolution to sustain human presence in low Earth orbit (LEO).
For businesses, this signals an unprecedented opportunity to invest in the infrastructure, services, and industries that will define the next era of space commercialization.
From luxury space tourism to cutting-edge microgravity research, the possibilities are endless for companies that position themselves early in this growing market.
29. SpaceX’s Starship may enable orbital tourism at under $10 million per seat in the 2030s
If Starship succeeds in lowering orbital travel costs to below $10 million per seat, the market could see a massive expansion.
This would make orbital tourism accessible to a much larger audience, creating new business opportunities in mid-range space travel, specialized tourism packages, and even space-based entertainment.
30. The space tourism industry is projected to be worth over $10 billion by 2040
The entire space tourism market is expected to reach an incredible $10 billion in value within the next two decades.
For businesses and investors, this means now is the best time to enter the industry. Companies should start developing their brand presence, exploring partnerships, and positioning themselves for future growth in this exciting new sector.
wrapping it up
Space tourism is no longer a distant dream—it’s a reality that’s rapidly evolving. Both orbital and suborbital tourism have made significant strides, attracting high-net-worth individuals and adventure seekers eager to experience space travel.
However, suborbital tourism is growing faster due to its lower costs, higher accessibility, and frequent launches. Companies like Virgin Galactic and Blue Origin are leading the way, proving that short-duration spaceflights are both viable and profitable.
